(Headline USA) Indiana Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb vetoed a bill this week that would have banned transgender athletes from participating in girls’ sports, claiming there is “no evidence” that transgender participation is a problem in Indiana’s education system.
“The presumption of the policy laid out in HEA 1041 is that there is a problem in K-12 sports in Indiana that requires further state government intervention,” Holcomb wrote in a letter to state lawmakers.
“It implies that the goals of consistency and fairness in competitive female sports are not currently being met. After thorough review, I find no evidence to support either claim even if I support the overall goal.”
Holcomb also claimed the bill is too vague, specifically in regards to how individual schools would maintain standards of fairness.
“Student-athletes could be treated differently according to which school they attend and compete for,” he said.
“Frustration of students, parents and administrators will likely follow,” he said. “This of course only increases the likelihood of litigation against our schools with the courts having to adjudicate the uncertainties.”
Several state Republicans have already vowed to override Holcomb’s veto.
State Rep. Jake Teshka said that, “as the father of a little girl,” he is disappointed with Holcomb’s decision and “eager to get back to the statehouse and cast my vote to override.”
State Rep. Chris Jeter agreed.
“This is disappointing,” he said. “Indiana girls deserve better. I will encourage my colleagues to join me in overriding this veto and protecting women athletes in Indiana.”
U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, R-Ind., said he would support state Republicans in their effort to nullify Holcomb’s decision.
Girls’ sports should be for girls, and allowing biological males to compete with them robs female athletes of a chance to compete and win. I’m disappointed Governor Holcomb vetoed a bill to make this law in Indiana, and I support a veto override to protect women’s athletics.
— Senator Mike Braun (@SenatorBraun) March 22, 2022
